Coal-fired plants still possible

By Knight Ridder Tribune


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Key lawmakers clashed with Gov. Kathleen Sebelius' administration over its recent decision to reject two coal-burning power plants in western Kansas.

The lawmakers indicated they would try to adopt legislation to put the plants back on track.

"I believe that we will have some type of legislative package developed, either before the session starts or after the session begins, to address this issue," said Senate President Steve Morris, R-Hugoton.

But Kansas Health and Environment Secretary Roderick Bremby, who denied the plants because of concerns about global warming, told legislators that future guidelines on carbon dioxide emissions will be considered as power plants come in for permit renewals.

"We do need to take the next step in looking at a climate change action plan," said Bremby, although he said targeted goals for CO2 reductions would not be in the form of regulations.

Bremby faced the legislative equivalent of a firing squad as he was summoned to testify to a recently formed committee composed of only supporters of the two 700-megawatt plants.

"What force of law did you have (to deny the plants)? " asked Rep. Carl Holmes, R-Liberal, who serves as chairman of the Electric Generation Review Committee. Even though the state doesn't regulate carbon dioxide, Bremby said he denied the permits because the CO2 emissions from the plants would have harmed the health of Kansans and the environment.

"CO2 contributes to climate change, which contributes to global warming, which is harmful to all humans," he said.

Repeatedly, members of the committee asked Bremby if he intended to put in place regulations to limit CO2 in existing coal-burning power plants. Bremby said that the state needs to develop a plan to reduce emissions.

"We have an issue we need to deal with," he said.

At times, Bremby backed off answering questions because, he said, the proposal by Hays-based Sunflower Electric Power Corp. will probably be decided in court. Although called to the committee, Attorney General Paul Morrison declined to appear, citing the possibility of future litigation in the case.

Morrison wrote a letter to the panel saying he stood by his legal analysis that Bremby had the authority to deny the permits under Kansas law.

Earlier, Sunflower chief executive officer Earl Watkins Jr. urged legislators to reverse Bremby's decision by passing a law that would restrict the secretary's authority to regulate only what the federal government is allowed to regulate.

Watkins said Bremby's decision was a "callous disregard of the law" that will put the Kansas economy at risk because of "regulatory uncertainty." He said Bremby's order could cause higher electric rates for rural customers, business flight, and force Sunflower to build its next plant in Oklahoma or Texas. And Watkins and others called to testify by Holmes downplayed the effects of carbon dioxide emissions and global warming.

"Carbon dioxide is a substance that sustains life," Watkins said. Executives from Westar Energy and Kansas City Power & Light also testified that Kansas must have more coal-powered plants to meet increasing demand.

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Two huge wind farms boost investment in America’s heartland

MidAmerican Energy Wind XI expands Iowa wind power with the Beaver Creek and Prairie farms, 169 turbines and 338 MW, delivering renewable energy, grid reliability, rural jobs, and long-term tax revenue through major investment.

 

Key Points

MidAmerican Energy Wind XI is a $3.6B Iowa wind buildout adding 2,000 MW to enhance reliability, jobs, and tax revenue.

✅ 169 turbines at Beaver Creek and Prairie deliver 338 MW.

✅ Wind supplies 36.6 percent of Iowa electricity generation.

✅ Projects forecast $62.4M in property taxes over 20 years.

 

Power company MidAmerican Energy recently announced the beginning of operations at two huge wind farms in the US state of Iowa.

The two projects, called Beaver Creek and Prairie, total 169 turbines and have a combined capacity of 338 megawatts (MW), enough to meet the annual electricity needs of 140,000 homes in the state.

“We’re committed to providing reliable service and outstanding value to our customers, and wind energy accomplishes both,” said Mike Fehr, vice president of resource development at MidAmerican. “Wind energy is good for our customers, and it’s an abundant, renewable resource that also energizes the economy.”

The wind farms form part of MidAmerican Energy’s major Wind XI project, which will see an extra 2,000MW of wind power built, and $3.6 billion invested amid notable wind farm acquisitions shaping the market by the end of 2019. The company estimates it is the largest economic development project in Iowa’s history.

Iowa is something of a hidden powerhouse in American wind energy. The technology provides an astonishing 36.6 percent of the state’s entire electricity generation and plays a growing role in the U.S. electricity mix according to the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA). It also has the second largest amount of installed capacity in the nation at 6917MW; Texas is first with over 21,000MW.

Along with capital investment, wind power brings significant job opportunities and tax revenues for the state. An estimated 9,000 jobs are supported by the industry, something a U.S. wind jobs forecast stated could grow to over 15,000 within a couple of years.

MidAmerican Energy is also keen to stress the economic benefits of its new giant projects, claiming that they will bring in $62.4 million of property tax revenue over their 20-year lifetime.

Tom Kiernan, AWEA’s CEO, revealed last year that, as the most-used source of renewable electricity in the U.S., wind energy is providing more than five states in the American Midwest with over 20 percent of electricity generation, “a testament to American leadership and innovation”.

“For these states, and across America, wind is welcome because it means jobs, investment, and a better tomorrow for rural communities”, he added.

 

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Octopus Energy Makes Inroads into US Renewables

Octopus Energy US Renewables Investment signals expansion into the US clean energy market, partnering with CIP for solar and battery storage projects to decarbonize the grid, boost resilience, and scale smart grid innovation nationwide.

 

Key Points

Octopus Energy's first US stake in solar and battery storage with CIP to expand clean power and grid resilience.

✅ Partnership with Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners

✅ Portfolio of US solar and battery storage assets

✅ Supports decarbonization, jobs, and grid modernization

 

Octopus Energy, a UK-based renewable energy provider known for its innovative approach to clean energy solutions and the rapid UK offshore wind growth shaping its home market, has announced its first investment in the US renewable energy market. This strategic move marks a significant milestone in Octopus Energy's expansion into international markets and underscores its commitment to accelerating the transition towards sustainable energy practices globally.

Investment Details

Octopus Energy has partnered with Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) to acquire a stake in a portfolio of solar and battery storage projects located across the United States. This investment reflects Octopus Energy's strategy to diversify its renewable energy portfolio and capitalize on opportunities in the rapidly growing US solar-plus-storage sector, which is attracting record investment.

Strategic Expansion

By entering the US market, Octopus Energy aims to leverage its expertise in renewable energy technologies and innovative energy solutions, as companies like Omnidian expand their global reach in project services. The partnership with CIP enables Octopus Energy to participate in large-scale renewable projects that contribute to decarbonizing the US energy grid and advancing climate goals.

Commitment to Sustainability

Octopus Energy's investment aligns with its overarching commitment to sustainability and reducing carbon emissions. The portfolio of solar and battery storage projects not only enhances energy resilience but also supports local economies through job creation and infrastructure development, bolstered by new US clean energy manufacturing initiatives nationwide.

Market Opportunities

The US renewable energy market presents vast opportunities for growth, driven by favorable regulatory policies, declining technology costs, and increasing demand for clean energy solutions, with US solar and wind growth accelerating under supportive plans. Octopus Energy's entry into this market positions the company to capitalize on these opportunities and establish a foothold in North America's evolving energy landscape.

Innovation and Impact

Octopus Energy is known for its customer-centric approach and technological innovation in energy services. By integrating smart grid technologies, digital platforms, and consumer-friendly tariffs, Octopus Energy aims to empower customers to participate in the energy transition actively.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, Octopus Energy plans to expand its presence in the US market and explore additional opportunities in renewable energy development and energy storage, including surging US offshore wind potential in the coming years. The company's strategic investments and partnerships are poised to drive continued growth, innovation, and sustainability across global energy markets.

Conclusion

Octopus Energy's inaugural investment in US renewables underscores its strategic vision to lead the transition towards a sustainable energy future. By partnering with CIP and investing in solar and battery storage projects, Octopus Energy not only strengthens its position in the US market but also reinforces its commitment to advancing clean energy solutions worldwide. As the global energy landscape evolves, including trillion-dollar offshore wind outlook, Octopus Energy remains dedicated to driving positive environmental impact and delivering value to stakeholders through renewable energy innovation and investment.

 

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B.C. residents and businesses get break on electricity bills for three months

BC Hydro COVID-19 Bill Relief offers pandemic support with bill credits, rate cuts, and deferred payments for residential, small business, and industrial customers across B.C., easing utilities costs during COVID-19 economic hardship.

 

Key Points

COVID-19 bill credits, a rate cut, and deferred payments for eligible B.C. homes, small businesses, and industrial customers.

✅ Non-repayable credits equal to 3 months of average bills.

✅ Small businesses closed can skip bills for three months.

✅ Large industry may defer 50% of electricity costs.

 

B.C. residents who have lost their jobs or had their wages cut will get a three-month break on BC Hydro bills, while small businesses, amid commercial consumption plummets during COVID-19, are also eligible to apply for similar relief.

Premier John Horgan said Wednesday the credit for residential customers will be three times a household’s average monthly bill over the past year and does not have to be repaid as part of the government’s support package during the COVID-19 pandemic, as BC Hydro demand down 10% highlights the wider market pressures.

He said small businesses that are closed will not have to pay their power bills for three months, and in Ontario an Ontario COVID-19 hydro rebate complemented similar relief, and large industrial customers, including those operating mines and pulp mills, can opt to have 50 per cent of their electricity costs deferred, though a deferred costs report warned of long-term liabilities.

BC Hydro rates will be cut for all customers by one per cent as of April 1, a move similar to Ontario 2021 rate reductions that manufacturers supported lower rates at the time, after the B.C. Utilities Commission provided interim approval of an application the utility submitted last August.

Eligible residential customers can apply for bill relief starting next week and small business applications will be accepted as of April 14, while staying alert to BC Hydro scam attempts during this period, with the deadline for both categories set at June 30.

 

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France's nuclear power stations to limit energy output due to high river temperatures

France Nuclear Heatwave Output Restrictions signal reduced reactor capacity along the Rhone River, as EDF curbs output to meet cooling-water rules, balance the grid, integrate solar peaks, and limit impacts on power prices.

 

Key Points

EDF limits reactor output during heat to protect rivers and keep the grid stable under cooling-water rules.

✅ Cuts likely at midday/weekends when solar peaks

✅ Bugey, Saint Alban maintain minimum grid output

✅ France net exporter; price impact expected small

 

The high temperature warning has come early this year but will affect fewer nuclear power plants, amid a broader France-Germany nuclear dispute over atomic power policy that shapes regional energy flows.

High temperatures could halve nuclear power production at plants along France's Rhone River this week, as European power hits records during extreme heat. 

Output restrictions are expected at two nuclear plants in eastern France due to high temperature forecasts, nuclear operator EDF said, which may limit energy output during heatwaves. It comes several days ahead of a similar warning that was made last year but will affect fewer plants.

The hot weather is likely to halve the available power supply from the 3.6 GW Bugey plant from 13 July and the 2.6 GW Saint Alban plant from 16 July, the operator said.

However, production will be at least 1.8 GW at Bugey and 1.3 GW at Saint Alban to meet grid requirements, and may change according to grid needs, the operator said.

Kpler analyst Emeric de Vigan said the restrictions were likely to have little effect on output in practice. Cuts are likely only at the weekend or midday when solar output was at its peak so the impact on power prices would be slim.

During recent lockdowns, power demand held firm in Europe, offering context for current price dynamics.

He said the situation would need monitoring in the coming weeks, however, noting it was unusually early in the summer for such restrictions to be imposed.

Water temperatures at the Bugey plant already eclipsed the initial threshold for restrictions on 9 July, underscoring France's outage risks under heat-driven constraints. They are currently forecast to peak next week and then drop again, Refinitiv data showed.

"France is currently net exporting large amounts of power – single nuclear units' supply restrictions will not have the same effect as last year," Refinitiv analyst Nathalie Gerl said.

The Garonne River in southern France has the highest potential for critical levels of warming, but its Golfech plant is currently offline for maintenance until mid-August, the data showed, highlighting how Europe is losing nuclear power during critical periods.

"(The restrictions were) to be expected and it will probably occur more often," Greenpeace campaigner Roger Spautz said.

"The authorities must stick to existing regulations for water discharges. Otherwise, the ecosystems will be even more affected," he added.

 

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TotalEnergies to Acquire German Renewables Developer VSB for US$1.65 Billion

TotalEnergies VSB Acquisition accelerates renewable energy growth, expanding wind and solar portfolios across Germany and Europe, advancing decarbonization, net-zero targets, and the energy transition through a US$1.65 billion strategic clean power investment.

 

Key Points

A US$1.65B deal: TotalEnergies acquires VSB to scale wind and solar in Europe and advance net-zero goals.

✅ US$1.65B purchase expands wind and solar pipeline

✅ Strengthens presence in Germany and wider Europe

✅ Advances net-zero, energy transition objectives

 

In a major move to expand its renewable energy portfolio, French energy giant TotalEnergies has announced its decision to acquire German renewable energy developer VSB for US$1.65 billion. This acquisition represents a significant step in TotalEnergies' strategy to accelerate its transition from fossil fuels to greener energy sources, aligning with the global push towards sustainability and carbon reduction, as reflected in Europe's green surge across key markets.

Strengthening TotalEnergies’ Renewable Energy Portfolio

TotalEnergies has long been one of the largest players in the global energy market, historically known for its oil and gas operations. However, in recent years, the company has made a concerted effort to diversify its portfolio and shift its focus toward renewable energy. The purchase of VSB, a leading developer of wind and solar energy projects, occurs amid rising European wind investment trends and is a clear reflection of TotalEnergies' commitment to this green energy transition.

VSB, based in Dresden, Germany, specializes in the development, construction, and operation of renewable energy projects, particularly wind and solar power. The company has a significant presence in Europe, with a growing portfolio of projects in countries like Germany, where clean energy accounts for 50% of electricity today, Poland, and the Czech Republic. The acquisition will allow TotalEnergies to bolster its renewable energy capacity, particularly in the wind and solar sectors, which are key components of its long-term sustainability goals.

By acquiring VSB, TotalEnergies is not only increasing its renewable energy output but also gaining access to a highly experienced team with a proven track record in energy project development. This move is expected to expedite TotalEnergies’ renewable energy ambitions, enabling the company to build on VSB’s strong market presence and established partnerships across Europe.

VSB’s Strategic Role in the Energy Transition

VSB’s expertise in the renewable energy sector makes it a valuable addition to TotalEnergies' green energy strategy. The company has been at the forefront of the energy transition in Europe, particularly in wind energy development, as offshore wind is set to become a $1 trillion business over the coming decades. Over the years, VSB has completed numerous large-scale wind projects, including both onshore and offshore installations.

The acquisition also positions TotalEnergies to better compete in the rapidly growing European renewable energy market, including the UK, where offshore wind is powering up alongside strong demand due to increased governmental focus on achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Germany, in particular, has set ambitious renewable energy targets as part of its Energiewende initiative, which aims to reduce the country’s carbon emissions and increase the share of renewables in its energy mix. By acquiring VSB, TotalEnergies is not only enhancing its capabilities in Germany but also gaining a foothold in other European markets where VSB has operations.

With Europe increasingly shifting toward wind and solar power as part of its decarbonization efforts, including emerging solutions like offshore green hydrogen that complement wind buildouts, VSB’s track record of developing large-scale, sustainable energy projects provides TotalEnergies with a strong competitive edge. The acquisition will further TotalEnergies' position as a leader in the renewable energy space, especially in wind and solar power generation.

Financial and Market Implications

The US$1.65 billion deal marks TotalEnergies' largest renewable energy acquisition in recent years and underscores the growing importance of green energy investments within the company’s broader business strategy. TotalEnergies plans to use this acquisition to scale up its renewable energy assets and move closer to its target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The deal also positions TotalEnergies to capitalize on the expected growth of renewable energy across Europe, particularly in countries with aggressive renewable energy targets and incentives.

The transaction is also expected to boost TotalEnergies’ presence in the global renewable energy market. As the world increasingly turns to wind, solar, and other sustainable energy sources, TotalEnergies is positioning itself to be a major player in the global energy transition. The acquisition of VSB complements TotalEnergies' previous investments in renewable energy and further aligns its portfolio with international sustainability trends.

From a financial standpoint, TotalEnergies’ purchase of VSB reflects the growing trend of large energy companies investing heavily in renewable energy. With wind and solar power becoming more economically competitive with fossil fuels, this investment is seen as a prudent long-term strategy, one that is likely to yield strong returns as demand for clean energy continues to rise.

Looking Ahead: TotalEnergies' Green Transition

TotalEnergies' acquisition of VSB is part of the company’s broader strategy to diversify its energy offerings and shift away from its traditional reliance on oil and gas. The company has already made significant strides in renewable energy, with investments in solar, wind, and battery storage projects across the globe, as developments like France's largest battery storage platform underline this momentum. The VSB acquisition will only accelerate these efforts, positioning TotalEnergies as one of the foremost leaders in the clean energy revolution.

By 2030, TotalEnergies plans to allocate more than 25% of its total capital expenditure to renewable energies and electricity. The company has already set ambitious goals to reduce its carbon footprint and shift its business model to align with the global drive toward sustainability. The integration of VSB into TotalEnergies’ portfolio signals a firm commitment to these goals, ensuring the company remains at the forefront of the energy transition.

In conclusion, TotalEnergies’ purchase of VSB for US$1.65 billion marks a significant milestone in the company’s renewable energy journey. By acquiring a company with deep expertise in wind and solar power development, TotalEnergies is taking decisive steps to strengthen its position in the renewable energy market and further its ambitions of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. This acquisition will not only enhance the company’s growth prospects but also contribute to the ongoing global shift toward clean, sustainable energy sources.

 

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N.S. abandons Atlantic Loop, will increase wind and solar energy projects

Nova Scotia Clean Power Plan 2030 pivots from the Atlantic Loop, scaling wind and solar, leveraging Muskrat Falls via the Maritime Link, adding battery storage and transmission upgrades to decarbonize grid and retire coal.

 

Key Points

Nova Scotia's 2030 roadmap to replace coal with wind, solar, hydro imports, storage, and grid upgrades.

✅ 1,000 MW onshore wind to supply 50% by 2030

✅ Battery storage sites and New Brunswick transmission upgrades

✅ Continued Muskrat Falls imports via Maritime Link

 

Nova Scotia is abandoning the proposed Atlantic Loop in its plan to decarbonize its electrical grid by 2030 amid broader discussions about independent grid planning nationwide, Natural Resources and Renewables Minister Tory Rushton has announced.

The province unveiled its clean power plan calling for 30 per cent more wind power and five per cent more solar energy in the Nova Scotia power grid over the coming years. Nova Scotia's plan relies on continued imports of hydroelectricity from the Muskrat Falls project in Labrador via the Emera-owned Maritime Link.

Right now Nova Scotia generates 60 per cent of its electricity by burning fossil fuels, mostly coal, and some increased use of biomass has also factored into the mix. Nova Scotia Power must close its coal plants by 2030 when 80 per cent of electricity must come from renewable sources in order reduce greenhouse gas emissions causing climate changes.

Critics have urged reducing biomass use in electricity generation across the province.

The clean power plan calls for an additional 1,000 megawatts of onshore wind by 2030 which would then generate 50 per cent of the the province's electricity, while also advancing tidal energy in the Bay of Fundy as a complementary source.    

"We're taking the things already know and can capitalize on while we build them here in Nova Scotia," said Rushton, "More importantly, we're doing it at a lower rate so the ratepayers of Nova Scotia aren't going to bear the brunt of a piece of equipment that's designed and built and staying in Quebec."

The province says it can meet its green energy targets without importing Quebec hydro through the Atlantic loop. It would have brought hydroelectric power from Quebec into New Brunswick and Nova Scotia via upgraded transmission links. But the government said the cost is prohibitive, jumping to $9 billion from nearly $3 billion three years ago with no guarantee of a secure supply of power from Quebec.

"The loop is not viable for 2030. It is not necessary to achieve our goal," said David Miller, the provincial clean energy director. 

Miller said the cost of $250 to $300 per megawatt hour was five times higher than domestic wind supply.

Some of the provincial plan includes three new battery storage sites and expanding the transmission link with New Brunswick. Both were Nova Scotia Power projects paused by the company after the Houston government imposed a cap on the utility's rate increased in the fall of 2022.

The province said building the 345-kilovolt transmission line between Truro, N.S., and Salisbury, N.B., and an extension to the Point Lepreau Nuclear Generating Station, as well as aligning with NB Power deals for Quebec electricity underway, would enable greater access to energy markets.

Miller says Nova Scotia Power has revived both.

Nova Scotia Power did not comment on the new plan, but Rushton spoke for the company.

"All indications I've had is Nova Scotia Power is on board for what is taking place here today," he said.

 

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